Trigger Finger Treatment without Surgery: A Non-Surgical Approach to Relieving Trigger Finger and Thumb

Are you struggling with the discomfort and limitations caused by trigger finger or thumb? Are you hesitant to undergo surgical treatment for it? If so, you’ll be pleased to know that there are non-surgical options for treating this condition. In this guest post, we’ll explore trigger finger treatment without surgery, including non-surgical options and lifestyle changes that can relieve your symptoms.

Understanding Trigger Finger

Before we delve into non-surgical treatments for trigger finger, let’s first understand what it is. Trigger finger, also known as steno sing tenosynovitis, is a condition that causes one or more of your fingers or thumb to get stuck in a bent position. This occurs due to inflammation or narrowing of the sheath that surrounds the tendon in your finger or thumb. It can be caused by various factors, such as repetitive hand movements, injury, or medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of Trigger Finger

The most common symptom of trigger finger is a clicking or popping sensation when you try to move your finger or thumb. This may be accompanied by pain, stiffness, or a feeling of your finger or thumb locking in a bent position. If left untreated, it can lead to decreased mobility and dexterity in your affected finger or thumb.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

1. Rest and Ice: One of the simplest and most effective non-surgical treatments for trigger finger is rest and ice. Avoid activities that cause pain and inflammation in your affected finger or thumb, and apply ice to reduce swelling.
2. Finger Exercises: Gentle exercises and stretches can help relieve stiffness and improve mobility in your affected finger or thumb. Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend specific exercises for you.
3. Splinting: Wearing a splint or brace on your affected finger or thumb can help immobilize it and reduce inflammation. This can be especially helpful at night, when you may unknowingly bend your finger or thumb in your sleep.
4. Medications: Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain in your affected finger or thumb.
5. Alternative Therapies: Alternative therapies like acupuncture or chiropractic treatment may also help relieve symptoms of trigger finger. However, it’s important to discuss these options with your doctor before trying them.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to non-surgical treatments, making certain lifestyle changes can also help alleviate symptoms of trigger finger. These include:

• Avoiding repetitive hand movements that may exacerbate your condition.
• Maintaining a healthy weight, as obesity can increase your risk of developing trigger finger.
• Performing hand and finger exercises regularly to improve mobility and strength.
• Taking frequent breaks from activities that involve gripping or grasping, such as using a computer mouse or playing video games.

Conclusion

In conclusion, trigger finger can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are non-surgical treatment options available. By resting your affected finger or thumb, performing gentle exercises, wearing a splint, and making certain lifestyle changes, you can relieve your symptoms and improve your mobility.

FAQs

• Can trigger finger go away on its own?

In some cases, trigger finger can resolve on its own with rest and conservative treatment. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical attention.

• How long does trigger finger take to heal?

The healing time for trigger finger can vary depending on the severity of your condition and the treatment options you choose. With non-surgical treatments, you may begin to experience relief within a few weeks to a few months.

• Is surgery the only option for treating trigger finger?

No, surgery is not the only option for treating trigger finger. There are non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes that can effectively relieve symptoms.

• Can I still use my affected finger or thumb while undergoing non-surgical treatment for trigger finger?

Yes, you can still use your affected finger or thumb while undergoing non-surgical treatment. In fact, gentle exercise and movement can help improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

• Can trigger finger be prevented?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent trigger finger, certain lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding repetitive hand movements can reduce your risk of developing it.